Well, the last one is getting long and time to focus on what else the Jays need as we head into Christmas.
With a new LH hitting CF in Kevin James Kiermaier, a new #3/4 starter in Chris Bassitt, and a solid reliever in Erik Swanson the 3 biggest needs for 2023 were covered.
Now the goal is to get one more LH hitter (ideally an OF) with a killer bat - Andrew Benintendi, Jurickson Profar, and Michael Brantley are all solid free agent options. Or if the Jays are willing to go with a RH DH/1B JD Martinez is still out there looking for a deal. Tons of trade potentials, especially with Arizona, are out there too.
The other goal might be more pen depth (always a few FA relievers out there - Taylor Rogers, Adam Ottavino, Japanese RHP Shintaro Fujinami is out there too, among others), or another starter (Johnny Cueto is rumored to be on the Jays radar while Carlos Rodon is also still available for lots of $$$). But with the payroll already north of $230 mil I'd be surprised if they go much further this winter.
Trade pieces are still available - the 3 catcher situation hasn't changed, the 3 headed 2B is also still kicking. People keep talking about moving Bo from SS to 2B or CF but I don't see it. Vlad before the offseason was talking about wanting a long term deal but will the Jays be willing to meet whatever he is asking for (probably well north of $200 million over 10 years).
Lots to talk about that is for sure. Top free agents left are Dansby Swanson (SS), Carlos Rodon (SP), and Andrew Benintendi (OF), Nathan Eovaldi (SP), Taylor Rogers (RP), and JD Martinez (DH) (that's all that is left from the top 25 FA's). The Jays might just sit on what they have and see if there are any last minute bargains come late February as free agents get anxious to sign. Maybe get another great deal like they did with Marcus Semien pre-2021 (a Jan 30th signing).
What is everyone's thoughts? (like I need to ask)
https://www.battersbox.ca/article.php?story=20221215180127870